SUNNYVALE and SAN RAFAEL, Calif., Oct. 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Trimble (NASDAQ:
TRMB) and
Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:
ADSK) announced that they have collaborated to develop a fully automated data exchange tool enabling information from an AutoCAD Civil 3D model to be directly imported into the Trimble Business Center-HCE (Heavy Construction Edition) data management software.

The new, free*, Web-downloadable software extension, called the AutoCAD Civil 3D Importer for Trimble Business Center-HCE, provides the ability to import DWG files that contain AutoCAD Civil 3D native design objects into the Trimble Business Center-HCE software. The AutoCAD Civil 3D model information is then used by the Trimble Business Center-HCE to prepare, manage and distribute data for use with Trimble's range of site positioning and grade control products for earthmoving, grading and finishing operations. Using the extension, contractors can realize a number of benefits, including:

-- Reduced data preparation time and costs: Minimizing the need to recreate
design information helps reduce data preparation time and supports the
faster delivery of updated design information to the field as a result
of design changes, which is especially beneficial on highways projects
where design revisions occur frequently.
-- Rich, first-hand information to the field: The ability to retain the
intelligence of the Civil 3D source model incorporating corridor model
sections, alignments, station equations, profiles, feature lines,
finished grade and subgrade surface information and advanced point
objects provides more detailed information and higher precision; the
construction-ready 3D models can be more quickly leveraged by Trimble
machine control and site positioning systems.
-- Full DWG compatibility: Improved DWG file format support (including Real
DWG) allows for extraction of both native CAD data and Civil 3D model
data (which would previously have been lost) delivering enhanced
compatibility with the Autodesk DWG file standards.
-- More simplified workflow: Now instead of using intermediary and often
less comprehensive file formats such as LandXML or basic CAD files for
exchange of information between the engineer and contractor, the
engineer can simply save the project and deliver the native design file
without needing to think about saving the file out to an alternative
format, which is immediately detached from the source design.

"Our new utility is a bridge that makes rich Civil 3D model information available to contractors who are going to grade the site," said Jim Lynch, vice president of marketing, Autodesk Architecture, Engineering and Construction Solutions. "With this new software extension, which transfers the Civil 3D model data into the Trimble Business Center data management software, we are bringing the benefits of a model-centric approach all the way to the job site. Before grading starts, contractors want to verify that the model they are sending into the field is appropriate for construction. That's where this new utility contributes; helping to reduce errors, save time and increase accuracy."

"Streamlining and optimizing the flow of data and information between the engineering design and the construction communities is a key motivation we share with Autodesk," said Roz Buick, general manager, Heavy and Highway Division, Trimble. "Our new collaboration creates a powerful data exchange extension that allows the information contained in Civil 3D models to flow more easily and efficiently out to the machine control and site positioning systems. Now contractors can take Civil 3D information and create models designed to optimize the use of Trimble site positioning and machine control solutions."

Trimble Business Center-HCE software supports construction data preparation and intelligently manages the provision of data to and from construction field crews. The software puts emphasis on efficient data management for multiple field crews and machines operating on a site over the lifetime of the project. Using Trimble Business Center-HCE, contractors can import, review and analyze digital design information or field generated data and easily assign, manage and track that information through the lifetime of a construction project.

Autodesk, Inc., is a world leader in 2D and
3D design and engineering software for the manufacturing, building and construction, and media and entertainment markets. Since its introduction of AutoCAD software in 1982, Autodesk has developed the broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art Digital Prototyping solutions to help customers experience their ideas before they are real. Fortune 1000 companies rely on Autodesk for the tools to visualize, simulate and analyze real-world performance early in the design process to save time and money, enhance quality and foster innovation. For additional information about Autodesk, visit
www.autodesk.com.

About Trimble

Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location--including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif. For more information about Trimble, visit:
www.trimble.com.

*Free products are subject to the terms and conditions of the end-user license agreement that accompanies download of the software.

Autodesk, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.